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Basel Cellars EstateWinery
WALLA WALLA
The enchantment in every bottle of Basel Cellars Estate Winery's wine–be it
red, white, or rosé–is undeniable. The richness of deep fruit; the distinction
of Columbia Valley character and Walla Walla dirt; the depth of full-bodied
flavors with smooth tannins and supple texture—there's really nothing that
doesn't entice and delight.
So, it's no surprise that such high-caliber, inspiring wines hail from an equally
enchanting estate; an estate that makes Basel Cellars the premier destination
winery in Walla Walla.
Founded in 2002, Basel Cellars was born when local grape grower Greg
Basel purchased a 96-acre estate formerly known as Double River Ranch.
The site had three vital components to creating a successful winery. First: The
environment. Rich soil and a hilltop location between Yellowhawk Creek and
the Walla Walla River were the perfect conditions for the 29 acres of vineyards
that would be planted. Secondly, the grandeur of the 14,000-square-foot,
lodge-style house on the property—not to mention its 2,000-square-foot
poolside cabana—couldn't have been more ideal for transforming the ranch
into a magnificent tasting room and event venue. And, third: The property's
9,600-square-foot, temperature-controlled, subterranean structure, which
had previously housed a car collection, was tailor-made for winemaking—just
like the caves of France! Affectionately called the "bat cave" by the Basel
Cellars team, this underground space is where all of their wine is produced.
FACING PAGE: Guests who visit Basel Cellars Estate Winery
& Resort are treated to scenic views of the estates 29 acres
of vineyards.
TOP: The entrance to the estate property and vineyard is as
grand as the tasting room and resort house itself.
Photographs by Mark Myers
